The Clover Mama Afrika – Ukwakha Isizwe (Building and nurturing our nation) project is a national social upliftment project which seeks to assist and support communities at grassroots level in an enabling and empowering manner so they can help themselves and those around them. The project’s main involvement is with women who look after abused, abandoned, orphaned and vulnerable children as well as the elderly.

In South Africa we have many such Mamas. They reflect humility, caring and strength and are respected by their peers. These Mamas hold the keys to the secrets of yesteryear. They tell the stories of the past and are the points of call in times of need. Not only are they aware of the needs of their communities, but they actively address those needs in whatever way possible. In their townships, they unassumingly take charge of protecting, nurturing and educating their young and take care of the abandoned senior citizens.

At Clover, we have the commitment to handle the Clover Mama Afrika Initiative; financially and otherwise. We have the infrastructure and proven track record in place to handle and, moreover, continue our commitment. In fact, the project has proved to be a tremendous success – and is a stable, well-run social investment programme of which the finances are independently audited by Ernst & Young.

But it is not enough. The scope of the project and the challenges facing South Africa are simply too big for Clover to carry alone. And so, in the spirit of ubuntu – of embracing humanity – we ask you to join us on this road through hope and upliftment to sustainable success.

While Africa is still a land of hunger and need, Clover Mama Afrika is a story of hard truths and soft touches…. Of an initiative that’s out of Africa and fully in place… Of money that’s not simply disappearing into a bottomless pit, but helping people rise above their circumstances.

To date every aspect of the Clover Mama Afrika initiative has surpassed all expectations and each success is a testament to the hard work, dedication and enormous price of all involved.

Any donation big or small makes a huge difference to the lives of Clover Mama Afrika members. All donations received are distributed accordingly to each centre countrywide.

Here are some ideas of what our Mamas will always be grateful for:

Nappies

There are just over 700 babies under the age of 2 years and therefore nappies would not be a luxury but a necessity. Most centres do not have washing machines and all towling nappies are washed by hand sometimes 5 x a day.

Utensils

With over 5000 children fed by the Mamas on a daily basis, basic utensils such as a spoon and bowl are considered as a luxury item. Most children arrive with either a broken plastic spoon and a broken ice cream tub or margarine tub. Stainless steel spoon and durable plastic bowls/plates will make a huge difference. Mamas also enjoy being a good host to visitors and therefore will never say no to a nice tea/coffee set or glass set.

Toiletries

They may live in dusty and sad surroundings but hygiene is always high on the priority list of the Mamas. Children have to be clean. Soaps, toothpaste, shampoo, toilet paper etc..

Cleaning goods

A Mama can never have enough detergents, disinfectants and cleaning goods to ensure a clean and safe environment for those she cares for.

Furniture

Anything from chairs, tables, shelving to beds, cupboards will always be used by the centres. Accessories such as carpets, mats and curtaining are also welcome.

Clothing

Good condition second hand clothing for young and old will always be worn with pride.

Toys

So many of the Clover Mama Afrika children do not possess their own toys. Good condition toys will bring about grateful smiles.

Playground

What youngsters can resist swings, monkey bars, slides – mini jungle gyms?

You have a Mama in your region that would welcome your experitise and assistance with:

• Plumbing
• General repair work
• Electrical
• Building
• Painting

Would you like to share your passion for music, art or sport? If so, why not spend some time at a Clover Mama Afrika centre near you and;

• teach them to play a musical instrument
• do a fun arts & craft day
• coach a sport such cricket, football, netball etc.
• have a poetry reciting day
• computer training